Mutual interest between AU, junior college tackle

AUBURN, Ala. | Badara Traore doesn’t know much about Auburn, but the offensive tackle from Nassau Community College in New York knows enough to be interested.

All Traore, who attended high school at Matignon in Boston, needs to know is that there is a need for him at Auburn.

“Auburn needs an offensive tackle that can come in and play right away,” Traore said. “That’s what I’m looking for, somewhere I can go in and play.”

Traore, who stands 6-foot-8 and weighs 310 pounds, received an offer from Auburn in February. He learned of the news during a conversation with Tigers offensive line coach Herb Hand.

“Coach Hand really likes me and how I play,” Traore said. “He said he likes who I am as a football player and also as a student. He said that they really need me and want me.”

Traore has never visited Auburn, but is considering a trip to the Plains in the summer or fall. He’s also considering visits to several other schools, all of which have offered. The list includes Auburn, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, Arizona State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Pittsburgh and South Carolina, among others.

“I’m looking at everyone right now,” Traore said. “I don’t have a top group of schools. I’m interested in all the schools that are interested in me, and I’m definitely interested in Auburn.”